Drumwaiter wrote:Still though, is the DAW adding the depth that it perceives or is it from the converter? Where does it happen?

The DAW is basically adding more numbers for it to work with. Think of it as adding more decimal points when doing any type of math. When you add more bits, you start by just adding 8 more "Zeros" but as soon as you do any work or "calculations" you start using those extra decimal points.

So the DAW simply accepts the finer resolution. So then the question goes back to the converter, and how much resolution it gives the DAW to play with.

"Volume automation takes time. You don't got that kinda time. You could be getting naked with somebody somewhere." -Slipperman

Drumwaiter wrote:So then the question goes back to the converter, and how much resolution it gives the DAW to play with.

I think you'll find this varies from setup to setup. I can run a 24 bit session through my MAudio MobilePre but it's only passing 16bits of resolution in or out. Some equipment isn't so honest about what it's actually doing.

"Once again, it is NEVER the gear that makes a good record.It just fills Forum pages..." --compasspnt

It's all about preserving your original audio data. The more you restrict it on the way in, (by recording at a lower bit depth and resolution), the less you have to play with once in your DAW, and mixing down.

44.1 is probably good enough for most of the time, but I like to record with more breathing room than I need, because it can't hurt to have the extra resolution. In my recording rig, I have 4x2T hard drives, so space is not even the remotest of issues for me.

I also agree with the 24 bit sentiment. I think you're more likely to hear a positive difference between 44.1/16 and 44.1/24 than you are with 44.1/16 and 88.2/16. YMMV.